Michael “Mike” J. Seipel

Michael “Mike” J. Seipel, affectionately known to family as “Uncle Mikey,” and to friends as “Lefty,” passed away on July 15, 2026. He will be remembered for his generous heart, steadfast faith, relentless work ethic, and the countless lives he touched through his compassion and willingness to help others.

Mike had an instinct to care for people. No matter the time of day, he would answer the phone and do whatever he could to help someone in need. His genuine manners, warm smile, and caring spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

His belief in the importance of helping others was reflected in words he shared following a local tragedy.  Mike said, “In the community, you rely on one another. If everybody can take a couple of minutes to help each other, it just makes all the difference in the world.”

Those words captured the way Mike lived his life, with compassion, generosity, and a sincere concern for those around him.

Mike spent much of his life working as an over-the-road truck driver and farmer. He was deeply proud of his nearly 40-year career as a truck driver, logging millions of miles as he traveled from coast to coast in his early years and later hauling agricultural loads throughout the region.

More often than not, Mike could be found rolling down the highway with AC/DC playing loudly, already looking forward to getting home and climbing onto his Harley-Davidson. When he was not behind the wheel of a truck, he was involved in farming. Both careers reflected his tireless work ethic, careful attention to detail, personal dedication, and respect for a job well done.

As much as Mike valued his work, nothing meant more to him than his family. His greatest joy was being “Papa Mike” to his grandchildren, Ryker, Rayne, and Rivvy. The time he spent with them and the memories they created together will remain in their hearts forever.

Mike also loved his faithful Doberman Pincher’s, Sable and Angus (named for AC/DC guitarist), who brought him comfort, loyalty, and companionship throughout the years.

In the final chapter of his life, Mike found a deep and unwavering faith that became the foundation of his strength. His relationship with God carried him through his greatest challenges and gave him courage, hope, and peace until the very end.

Mike was preceded in death by his infant son, John M. Seipel; his mother, Joyce A. Reid Seipel; and his father, Charles L. Seipel.

He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Trishia Cooper and her husband, Dylan; his grandchildren, Ryker, Rayne, and Rivvy Cooper; his son, Dwight Seipel; his brother, Ken Seipel; his sisters, Connie Riley and Debbie Betz, and their spouses; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family members, and close friends.

Friends may view and sign the register from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday with the family present to receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  

A funeral service celebrating Mike’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony, Kansas, with Pastor Ron Eden officiating. Graveside services will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery in Anthony.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 602 E. Main Street, Anthony, Kansas 67003.

Mike lived with strength, worked with purpose and never hesitated to help someone in need. His faith, kindness, and generous spirit will continue to live on through his family, his friends, and every person whose life was made better because he was part of it. His final act of kindness was serving as an organ donor for countless individuals.